xtratime Logo

[caption id="attachment_42455" align="aligncenter" width="580"] Tulunga at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport |Iamge: XtraTime[/caption] Kolkata: Malsawmtluanga Shylo, popularly known as Mama was the first footballer from Mizoram to play outside the state and also became the first Mizo player to represent the country. Commonly called the"Mizo icon", Tulunga showed the milky way to the next generations to become professional as footballer. Aizawl FC, the club from Mizoram, who are challenging Mohun Bagan for the title, are probably relishing the fruits, once generated by Mama. Before Mohun Bagan face Aizawl for the championship battle, Tulunga spoke with www.xtratime.incorrespondent Sabyasachi Bagchi about his views regarding the rise of Aizawl FC. Here goes the conversation: XT: Mama, you are said to be the Mizo football icon. How do you rate this rise of Aizawl FC? Tulunga: Aizawl has just come a couple of years back. The reason behind their success is that they play as a team and more importantly they don't have anyone who brings politics in the team. They win together, the lose together. The fans too play an important part from the stands. The football craze has been huge in Aizawl. It will be very tough for Mohun Bagan to beat Aizawl tomorrow. XT: Why do you think that it would be difficult for Mohun Bahan? Tulunga: The reason is, everyone over there, is extra-motivated to win the first I-League. Even the crowd will be huge. The tickets were sold outin two days. If Mohun Bagan fails to score an early goal, they would be under some serious pressure. XT: Do you think the combination of Khalid Jamil and Jahar Das made a serious impact in Aizawl FC? Tulunga: Yes they a made some serious development. Previously it was all about local talents. Both Khalid Sir and Jahar sir know a lot of things about Indian football. That helped Aizawl's preparation. XT: How tough will it be for Jeje tomorrow? He is also a local boy. Tulunga: It won't be tough for Jeje as he is vastly experienced. Played a lot of international football as well. It will be even more fun for him if he scores a goal. XT: Do you feel bad for David Lalrinmuana as your former team East Bengal hardly gave him any opportunity? Tulunga: I feel really bad for him. He played so well in the last season. He had 4 Hero of the Match awards. He was one of the best players of the last season as well. But dodn't play a single match this season for East Bengal.In future, the other players from Mizoram too will get afraid to come. He shouldn't have come here. XT: What do you want to say about East Bengal's downfall? Tulunga: The problem is that the players never get united. Ups and downs are part of the game. But it's important for the officials to come together for a mission.